When equipment needs calibration, the first question is often not whether it needs to be done. In many cases, the bigger question is where the work should take place.
Should the equipment be sent to a calibration laboratory, or should a technician come to the facility? Both options can be appropriate, but they do not work in the same way. The right choice may depend on the type of equipment, how it is used, how easily it can be moved, and what taking it out of service would mean for your operation.
This is why in-lab and on-site calibration should be considered on a case-by-case basis, based on the equipment and the situation, rather than treated as interchangeable services. For some instruments, sending the equipment to a laboratory makes the most sense. For others, moving the equipment may be difficult or cause too much disruption.
Understanding the difference can make it easier to choose the right approach.
What Is In-Lab Calibration?
With in-lab service, equipment is sent to a calibration facility where the work is completed using the laboratory’s equipment and reference standards.
This can be a practical option for portable instruments and equipment that can be removed from service and shipped or delivered to the laboratory. Once the equipment is received, the calibration work can be performed in a controlled environment.
Some of the benefits of in-lab calibration may include:
- Access to specialized calibration standards and equipment
- A controlled environment for the calibration process
- No need to bring calibration equipment into your facility
- A practical option for portable equipment
The equipment may also receive an additional inspection or evaluation during the process, depending on the service and the instrument involved.
When In-Lab Services May Be the Better Choice
Your Equipment Can Be Moved Easily
Some equipment is small enough to ship or transport without much difficulty. In those cases, sending it to a laboratory can be straightforward.
This may apply to portable measuring instruments, gauges, balances, electronic devices, and other equipment that does not need to remain installed during calibration.
The Equipment Is Already Due for Service
If a piece of equipment can be removed from use without affecting day-to-day operations, in-lab service may fit well into the schedule.
For example, a facility may have spare equipment available while one instrument is being calibrated. This can reduce concerns about downtime.
Controlled Laboratory Environment May Be Beneficial
Certain instruments may benefit from being calibrated in a controlled laboratory setting. Environmental conditions and specialized standards can be important depending on the type of equipment being serviced.
In these situations, the decision is not simply about convenience. The equipment’s calibration requirements may help determine where the work should be performed.
What Is On-Site Calibration?
On-site calibration takes place at the customer’s facility. Rather than transporting the instruments to another place, calibration technicians come to the site of the instrument with all the required equipment and standards.
This method can be adopted when the instruments are hard to transport, fixed in one place, or regularly required by the ongoing activity. This task will be accomplished at the premises itself without shifting the instrument. Depending on the equipment and service requirements, this may reduce the disruption associated with removing, packing, shipping, and reinstalling the instrument.
When On-Site Services May Make More Sense
The Equipment Is Difficult to Move
Not every piece of equipment can be boxed and shipped. Large balances, industrial equipment, installed systems, and certain other instruments may be difficult or impractical to transport.
In these cases, on-site service can remove the need to take the equipment apart or move it to another location.
Downtime Needs to Be Managed Carefully
Sending equipment to a laboratory may mean it is unavailable for a period of time. For some businesses, that is manageable. For others, it can create problems.
On-site service may be a better option when equipment is regularly used and removing it from the facility would interrupt production, testing, or another important process.
The Equipment Needs to Stay Where It Is
Some instruments are installed as part of a larger system. Moving them may not be realistic, and the equipment may need to be calibrated where it operates. On-site service allows the calibration process to take place without changing the equipment’s location.
In-Lab vs. On-Site Services: A Quick Comparison
When comparing in-lab vs. on-site calibration services, it helps to look at the practical differences.
| Factor | In-Lab Calibration | On-Site Calibration |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Equipment is sent to a calibration laboratory | Calibration is performed at your facility |
| Equipment type | Often suitable for portable equipment | Often useful for installed or difficult-to-move equipment |
| Transportation | Equipment must be delivered or shipped | Equipment stays at your location |
| Downtime | Equipment is unavailable while away for service | Can help reduce disruption caused by removing equipment |
| Environment | Performed in a laboratory setting | Performed at the facility |
| Best choice | Depends on the equipment and calibration requirements | Depends on access, equipment location, and operational needs |
The table provides a general comparison, but neither service is better for every situation. The same facility may use both options for different types of equipment.
Get the Right Calibration Service for Your Equipment
Choosing between laboratory and on-site service does not have to be complicated when the equipment and its requirements are properly reviewed. At LAW Calibration, we offer both on-site and in-lab calibration services for a range of equipment and industries.
As Northern New England’s most comprehensive ISO/IEC 17025-2017 accredited calibration laboratory, we serve customers across Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia.
With a team that includes metrologists, engineers, field technicians, and customer care specialists, we can help customers address their calibration needs and choose the service that fits their equipment and operations.
FAQs
Is in-lab calibration more accurate?
Not necessarily. The appropriate calibration method depends on the equipment, the required standards, and the specific service requirements. A controlled laboratory environment may be important for some instruments, while others can be calibrated appropriately at the customer’s location.
What equipment can be calibrated on-site?
This depends on the type of equipment and the calibration requirements. On-site service may be available for equipment that is large, installed, difficult to transport, or better serviced at the facility where it is used.
Can one company use both on-site and in-lab services?
Yes. Many facilities contain different types of equipment; thus it may be feasible to use both services. Portable instruments can be sent to a lab, whereas bigger or established equipment may be calibrated in the field.
How do I know what service is best for my equipment?
Consider the equipment’s size, portability, location, downtime requirements, and calibration needs. Speaking with a qualified calibration provider can also help determine the most suitable option.